Oh California, I daresay it's been a long haul.

This week is a landmark in the rights for proponents of same-sex unions, commonly known as "gay marriage." We do not forget the recent history when Mayor Gavin Newsom ordered that GLBT people should be able to wed, in San Francisco, 2004; It was a day full of Political Bravado. I remember the news and the spewing of opinions by everyone as our country watched in some shock on both sides of the issue as to what had just happened.

As we know, the affair was quickly shot down and the marriage licences granted that hopeful day were rescinded. Four years later we have a decision from the Supreme Court in California by a majority of Justices who were appointed by Republicans stating that Mayor Newsom's earlier decree really is supported by California's Constitution. While the decision could be put off, it probably will not be.

What does this mean. Well for starters the State of New York has said recently it will recognize gay marriages performed from outside the state. However, NY is not currently on board for granting them in NY. So the Gay New Yorker will now be flocking to California to get married. You still have to be a resident of Massachusetts to get married there.

There is always a trade off however when big decisions like this happen. I find it interesting that both of these landmark items have happened in an election year. I feel some trepidation that instead of truly focusing on the economic and social issues that so plague our country, we will let yet another hot button social issue dominate our Presidential election. It's just the sort of fire the right wing wackos need to slander an Democratic candidate. I hope they look foolish doing it, because Lord knows these people were raised with righteous anger and hate. It makes for great TV, but piss poor public image.

I do not like to speculate and I certainly do not want to start any sort of rumor. Food for thought though: A Republican appointed Supreme Court in CA made a decision regarding a hot button social issue during a Presidential election year that is dominated by Democratic candidates. First, it's probably the only time the justices will scathe through without terrible reproach from Republicans. Note: Republicans can always use this opportunity to triangulate. Second, it could be great sabotage. Third, something really great could happen: a Republican candidate commenting on same-sex unions might reveal just how short sighted their positions really are for our nation.

Personally, I pray that same-sex civil liberties are not advanced this year in vain. It is too painful for the people who live these issues in every day life. If the Republicans manage to come into power again, we will just have 4 more years (or more) of the same.

LastManOut